Junior doctors are into their third strike over a proposed new contract.
They began a 48-hour walkout at 8 o'clock this morning, with only emergency cover being provided.
The University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Trust says although the length of this strike is "more challenging", they've been able to plan better in advance of it, to minimise disruption the best they can.
A UHMBT spokesperson said: "If patients have had their appointment or surgery cancelled they will have been contacted in advance directly by the Trust. If patients have not heard otherwise they should attend hospital as planned.
"We’d also like to take this opportunity to remind people that, out with the Junior Doctor’s action, there are daily pressures on our Emergency Departments. Where possible, people should contact their GP, seek advice from their local pharmacist, call NHS111 or consult the NHS Choices website.
"Emergency Departments should only be considered where there is a major life threatening illness or injury such as chest pain, choking, suspected stroke or where there has been a major accident".
You can find further information here.
The three days of strike action are:
• 8am Wednesday 9 March to 8am Friday 11 March
• 8am Wednesday 6 April to 8am Friday 8 April
• 8am Tuesday 26 April to 8am Thursday 28 April
Dr David Rogers, Medical Director for NHS Cumbria Clinical Commissioning Group and lead for the North Cumbria System Resilience Group, added: “We have already seen our contingency plans tested by strike action by Junior Doctors. Our first priority is patient safety and we can reassure the public that all NHS organisations in Cumbria have tried and tested plans in place.
“As ever, we would urge people using NHS services to ‘help us to help you’ by using the right service for your needs. A+E is for serious and life threatening injuries and conditions. If you aren’t sure if your ailment is an emergency you can get free and quick advice online through NHS Choices or call NHS 111.”